The toilet block closest to the rail trail in Meeniyan will be closed Monday to Friday from Tuesday 10 June, after the Meeniyan Recreation Reserve Committee of Management said it no longer has the volunteers or funding to keep it open seven days a week.
The issue was flagged in the most recent Meeniyan newsletter. "These are the town's playground toilets," the Meeniyan Progress Association wrote. "It's too far for little ones to go to the public toilets in the main street."
Community members have also raised concerns about the broader economic impact, with one resident noting on social media that the closure could affect camping numbers and hit local businesses. "This will be such a shame — what costs will Meeniyan businesses miss out on for starters," they wrote. Another urged the community to act: "I think we all need to call or email council. This would have a flow-on effect and possibly affect camping numbers too."
South Gippsland Shire Council said it had received a submission from the Reserve Committee of Management as part of the current budget process. "This submission will be taken into account as part of the budget adoption process next month," a spokesperson said. "Community input plays a valuable role in shaping Council priorities, and the committee's perspective will help form part of those discussions."
The budget is due to be adopted at the 17 June Council meeting. Anyone wishing to advocate for the toilets to remain open is encouraged to contact South Gippsland Shire Council directly at council@southgippsland.vic.gov.au or by calling 03 5662 9200. Cara Schultz
